Gov. Haley's Husband Going to Afghanistan

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP, WLTX) - Gov. Nikki Haley's husband Michael is being deployed to Afghanistan with South Carolina's National Guard.

Gubernatorial spokesman Rob Godfrey says Michael Haley received his orders Monday and is leaving the country in January.

Michael Haley is a first lieutenant with the South Carolina Army National Guard. Col. Pete Brooks says Haley is being deployed as an individual and will be a liaison between an agricultural unit and Afghan leaders.

He is slated to return to the United States in December.

"This deployment is the reason I joined the National Guard," Michael Haley said in a statement. "It is important to me to be able to give back. So, in that regard, I am looking forward to the opportunity to serve with a great team from South Carolina. The only thing that gives me pause is the year long deployment away from family. But in the end, I can't help but to think giving one year along with my fellow soldiers, as many have done before me, to secure a life of freedom for my family is well worth all that comes with it."

In speeches, Gov. Nikki Haley frequently talks about her husband's military service and says she is proud that he puts on his uniform daily when he goes to work.

"As a military sister, and now a military wife, I know the sacrifices a family goes through when a loved one is serving his or her country," said Gov. Haley. "I also know the amazing pride we feel in watching them drop everything to serve. Our time has come, and it is an honor to watch him serve our country. Our family could not be more proud of Michael and every man and woman who puts on a uniform."